CARCINOGEN ACTIVATION BY HUMAN UTERINE ENZYMES

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 9  (3) , 236-242
Abstract
Carcinogenesis of estrogen responsive tissues is discussed in terms of enzymology of benzo(a)pyrene activation by human tissues, microsomal activation of estrogens to estrogen arene oxides and estrogen and progesterone receptor studies in endometrial carcinoma. Environmental chemicals, such as cigarette smoke, polycyclic and polyhalogenated hydrocarbons, etc. may, induce special forms of cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase and related enzyme systems which can activate endogenous or prescribed estrogens and non-steroid antiestrogens to act as initiators and/or promoters of neoplasia in estrogen-dependent organs. The role of estrogen receptors is perceived as a homing device or cellular "Trojan Horse" for these activated estrogens.